Park district solicits public feedback

DOWNERS GROVE – The Downers Grove Park District has put out a call for residents' feedback before it drafts its next five-year strategic plan.

The district has scheduled several different focus groups, facilitated by Face to Face Communications, for residents to share what they think the district is doing well, and what it could do better.

"It's important for us to hear the opinions and recommendations of the key internal and external stakeholders," said park district spokesperson Brandi Beckley. "And these focus groups are a great way to share those opinions. We're just excited to see where this process leads us and to formulate the vision of the district."

There are three scheduled general community groups, one teen focus group and another for inter-governmental and business. To see the schedule and to RSVP to attend a group, visit www.dgparks.org.

In the last year, the park district has welcomed a new Executive Director Bill McAdam, along with new directors of recreation, administrative services and operations and development.

McAdam said the groups will be a good opportunity to see "where we've been and where we're going."

The groups will be open-ended and will look to broach a wide spectrum, he said.

"Whatever is brought up (by residents) is what we're looking for," he said.

McAdam added that he has heard interest from the public about the district expanding its special events, especially at the Memorial Pavilion at Fishel Park.

After the focus groups, he said Face to Face Communication will compile a report and recommendations, which district staff and the board will make adjustments to before writing the strategic plan.